In a shocking turn of events, former NBA star Charles Barkley has revealed in a recent interview with Shannon Sharpe that his gambling addiction has left him “depressed” after losing a staggering $25 million in Las Vegas casinos.
Barkley, known for his charismatic personality both on and off the basketball court, opened up to Sharpe on his popular podcast about the extent of his gambling problems and how it has affected his mental health.
“I would go to Vegas and just play $25,000 hands like it was nothing,” Barkley admitted, his voice filled with regret. “I thought I was invincible, but in reality, I was just digging myself deeper into a hole.”
The 58-year-old former player explained that he initially started gambling as a way to unwind and have fun, but it quickly spiraled out of control as he started betting more and more money.
“It’s a dangerous cycle. You win big one night, and you think you’re on top of the world. But then you lose it all back the next night, and it’s like a punch to the gut,” Barkley recalled.
Sharpe, clearly taken aback by Barkley’s candidness, pressed him on how he managed to overcome his gambling addiction and what advice he would give to others struggling with similar issues.
“I had to hit rock bottom before I realized I needed help. I was hurting myself and everyone around me,” Barkley confessed. “It took therapy, support from loved ones, and a lot of self-reflection to finally break free from the grips of addiction.”
The conversation took a somber tone as Barkley shared how his gambling losses not only affected his finances but also took a toll on his mental well-being.
“I was in a dark place. I felt like I had let everyone down, including myself,” Barkley admitted, his voice cracking. “But with the right support and determination, I was able to turn things around and start to rebuild my life.”
As the interview concluded, Sharpe thanked Barkley for being so honest and vulnerable about his struggles, calling it a “refreshing and eye-opening conversation.”
The revelation of Barkley’s $25 million gambling losses has sent shockwaves through the sports world, with fans and fellow athletes expressing their support for the former NBA star as he continues his journey towards recovery and healing.
